Taoiseach in north for political talks

BUDGET cuts and the talks process are set to be discussed by Stormont leaders today at a North South Ministerial Council meeting being attended by Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Mr Kenny and members of his cabinet will join Northern Ireland executive members in a meeting hosted by Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness.

Speaking ahead of the visit to Armagh, the Fine Gael leader, right, said he was looking forward to discussing "financial and economic matters" and the political talks process. "The meeting will afford us the opportunity to highlight progress, particularly in the economic sphere, in north-south cooperation," he said. "The visit will also give me the opportunity to discuss the political talks process with the first minister and deputy first minister."